Overview & Reviews

The Nissan Altima has been sold for nearly two decades, starting out as a smallish midsize sedan and maturing into the full-fledged family sedan it is today. There have been five Altima generations thus far, with the third generation marking the key shift to mainstream dimensions and specifications. Nissan likes to emphasize the Altima's fun-to-drive character, a trait we've come to appreciate in road tests over the years. Significant evolutions in features, finesse and frugality have made the Altima a perennial top pick in this popular segment.

Current Nissan Altima
The Altima is available with one of two engines. The standard 2.5-liter, 182-horsepower four-cylinder returns an impressive 31 mpg combined, while the 3.5-liter, 270-hp V6 achieves a respectable 25 mpg combined. Both are equipped with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).

There are seven trim levels to choose from, designated as either 2.5 or 3.5 depending on which engine's under the hood. The base 2.5 model gets you steel wheels along with nice perks like keyless ignition/entry and Bluetooth streaming audio, while the 2.5 S adds a power driver seat and an upgraded stereo. The 2.5 SV includes alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control and a touchscreen interface. The fancy 2.5 SL boasts leather upholstery and Bose audio.

Note that the 3.5 S gets many of the 2.5 SV's features plus larger alloy wheels, and the 3.5 SL tacks on xenon headlights. All SV and SL models are eligible for a Technology package that includes a bigger touchscreen, a navigation system, voice controls and a collection of electronic safety features like blind-spot monitoring.

In reviews, we've been very impressed with the Nissan Altima. Most of its competitors are certainly worth a look, but this Nissan has all the makings of a benchmark. It does all the little things right, and goes the extra mile with its rewarding driving dynamics and high-end cabin. Passenger space is also quite good, though some may find backseat headroom a bit lacking.

If you're having a hard time choosing between the four-cylinder and the V6, consider that the four offers a rare combination of excellent fuel economy and relatively swift acceleration. In Edmunds testing, a four-cylinder Altima accelerated to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds, which is pretty impressive given its high fuel economy. Of course, we clocked the burly V6 at just 6.2 seconds, so if power's a priority, the 3.5 model range is a nice option to have.

Used Nissan Altima Models
The current, fifth-generation Nissan Altima debuted for the 2013 model year. The latest Altima benefits from overhauled styling inside and out, with a focus on a more upscale look and feel. Fuel economy is markedly better for both four-cylinder and V6 models, while updated suspension and steering systems maintain the Altima's reputation as one of the market's best-handling family sedans. For that debut year only, the previous-generation Altima coupe continued to be sold alongside the redesigned sedan. The coupe was subsequently discontinued.

The previous, fourth-generation Nissan Altima sedan was produced from 2007 through 2012 and marked the arrival of the now-ubiquitous CVT. It is in many ways similar to its successor, so a used one could be a good budget-friendly alternative. A coupe version debuted in 2008 and was produced in modest numbers through 2013. A limited-production Altima Hybrid was also available in some states from 2007 through 2011.

The fourth-generation Altima went without major changes for most of its run, though used car shoppers should note that there were some styling tweaks for 2010, along with the addition of an iPod interface and enhanced audio and navigation systems. Both the sedan and coupe were broken into 2.5 and 3.5 model ranges. The 2.5 models had a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produced 175 hp. The 3.5 SR (originally called SE) models had a 3.5-liter V6 that produced 270 hp. Though these powertrains are similar to those of the fifth-generation Altima, they were considerably less fuel-efficient. A CVT was mandatory on the sedan, while the coupe got a standard six-speed manual transmission with the CVT as an option.

We mostly praised the power and handling of both the four-cylinder and V6 Altima models in our reviews. The 3.5 models were more sporting, of course, thanks to their effortless acceleration and sport-tuned suspensions. But even the most basic 2.5-liter four-cylinder was one of the more rewarding family sedans to drive, while still providing a comfortable ride. The CVT was one of the best examples of its breed, and we would choose it over the coupe's six-speed manual, which was unrefined and difficult to use.

The third-generation Nissan Altima, produced from 2002-'06, set the stage for the Altima we know today. Radically different from the previous car, this enlarged model put Nissan smack dab in the middle of the family-sedan wars. It was about 6 inches longer than the previous generation, and its new suspension design and stronger body made it both better to drive and more useful for families. At the time, it was one of the most powerful family sedans available, offering either a 175-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or a 240-hp 3.5-liter V6, the latter a shot over the bows of the weaker Camry and Accord V6 models. Both engines offered a choice of manual or automatic transmissions, with four-cylinder Altimas limited to a four-speed automatic versus the V6's available five-speed auto.

The third-generation interior was widely criticized for looking and feeling cheap, but the Altima had a particularly lively feel for a front-wheel-drive family sedan. Our editors concluded that the Altima had gone from wallflower to genuinely desirable sedan overnight. For driving enthusiasts, the 2005-'06 Altima SE-R was the way to go. This specialized model came with a firmer suspension, a bit more power and an exclusive six-speed manual transmission whose slick operation was a cut above Nissan's unimpressive norm.

The first and second generations saw the Altima trying to find its groove. All models of this vintage were powered by a reasonably peppy 150-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. Introduced in 1993, the original Altima fell somewhere in between the compact and midsize categories, and American car shoppers weren't overly impressed. We found the second-generation Altima, sold for the 1998-2001 model years, to be a decent handler, but its overall design was simply too bland, and its odd size remained an issue. Mainstream success would have to wait for the blockbuster third-generation model.

User Reviews:

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  Very disappointed - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By jtolleson - August 24 - 1:50 am

  Ive had my Altima seven months now, and have had way too many trips to the dealership for a new car. That is why I buy new -- to avoid dealing with problems! There are a lot of things I love about the car. But theres also a lot I hate about the car, especially the whine from the power steering pump (I complained so much that Nissan replaced the steering pump, but the new pump makes the exact same noises). That constant noise at low speeds drives me crazy. Ive also had it in several times because of rattles from the moon roof and bolts needing to be tightened, and the passenger airbag sensor not working.

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  first nissan for me - 2006 Nissan Altima
  By special - August 24 - 1:13 am

  although i looked at several cars the altima seemed to be the best buy for the money. it rides good, and is a good looking car. it has most of the nice options that add a lot of dollars that a lot of other cars charge a lot extra for. i got the 2.5 special model although i got hurt and have not been able to drive as much as i would have normal i have no complaints at this time

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  Altima still needs some improvement - 2008 Nissan Altima
  By Corolla_luva - August 22 - 8:53 pm

  I bought the Altima 2 weeks ago and I dont know how to describe the feeling of looking at the 2008 Altima 3.5 SE (V-6!!). Its beyond great. But the problems are there, I cant ignore it. After a couple days of driving it, I found the suspension noise to be very loud and found it to be annoying (sounds like its rusted metal, a "squeak" sound). Two, the build material or overall finish of the interior was made with cheap material. The 2 front side of the door also made a "squeak" noise when you pressed upon it or when the car turned and your leg/thigh leaned against it.

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  This is the car that you want - 2009 Nissan Altima
  By lloryap - August 21 - 11:30 am

  If you are looking for an outstanding car for the price, comfort, features, power, build quality, style (compare style with Infiniti G (Infiniti is Nissan)), and great fuel economy, then this is the car that you want. Freeway - average 35-40+ mpg, city - average 25-29. Professional, sporty, and not pretentious. Every time I see, get in and drive my car, I know I made the right decision.

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  Beautiful car with great features - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By crosstrack - August 20 - 11:59 am

  Looking for a vehicle to replace my 2008 Explorer, I wanted room for 3 car seats in the rear while still getting 30+mpg. I came across the Altima after thinking how great my 2005 Altima was, and after looking at it in person, i was not disappointed. The front seats are extremely comfortable, took a 14 hour road trip one week after purchase and no complaints with comfort. Rear seat holds 3 carseats snuggly (its not an SUV), headroom not an issue for my kids. Trunk is massive. Leater is soft and comfortable. Heated seats get very warm on hi and heated steering wheel is a nice plus. No issues with bluetooth with iphone 5. Averaged 34mpg on hwy driving 80-85mph. Average 32 in city.

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  I love my Altima! - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By Sandra Hoecker - August 17 - 10:33 am

  After 21 years of Hondas (which I loved), I bought an Altima because it had attractive exterior style (Accords & Camrys are pretty dull) & the CVT had been in use long enough for the bugs to be worked out. Im retired so am no longer a high- mileage driver but I tool around town daily. I have never had a single problem, even a minor one. Im not overly pleased with the mileage (which I calculate & is below what the dash calculator computes) but that may be due to my short city trips. Everyone who has driven my car comments on what a pleasure it is to drive. I just want a nice car that ALWAYS runs since Im a 1-car household. The Altima has exceeded my expectations.

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  I (mostly) love my Altima! - 2013 Nissan Altima
  By Sandra Hoecker - August 17 - 10:10 am

  After 21 years of Hondas (which I loved), I bought an Altima because it had attractive exterior style (Accords & Camrys are pretty dull) & the CVT had been in use long enough for the bugs to be worked out. Im retired so am no longer a high- mileage driver but I tool around town daily. I have never had a single problem, even a minor one. Im not overly pleased with the mileage (which I calculate & is below what the dash calculator computes) but that may be due to my short city trips. Everyone who has driven my car comments on what a pleasure it is to drive. I just want a nice car that ALWAYS runs since Im a 1-car household. The Altima has exceeded my expectations. UPDATE: Above is/was all true until 2 weeks ago when I suddenly lost the power steering. PS hose had a leak & fluid had drained out. I just passed 20K miles, for heavens sake! $640 repair, without any explanation or compromise from dealer. Not happy about that. I didnt get the extended warranty as Ive lost money on all but 1 car before & knew Id be a low mileage driver.

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  Paint Defects - 2012 Nissan Altima
  By skreamz - August 14 - 5:13 pm

  bought a certified used 2012 Nissan Altimawith only 7.000 miles from Montrose Nissan in Hermitage, Pennsylvania in Sept 2012. I noticed in March 2013 that my trunk lid on my car had defects in the clear coat. After closer examination They were real small specs in the clear coat that were starting to peel. Several trips to the dealership and endless phone calls to Nissan Consumer Affairs and still no result. The service department at this dealership is very slow when it comes to this issue. Nissan has very very poor service when it comes to warranty issues. Save your money and go buy either a Honda or a Toyota. This is the last time I ever buy a Nissan. Nissan you blew it.

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  150K and still going - 2001 Nissan Altima
  By Lee - August 13 - 11:26 pm

  I bought the car new. Manifold gasket replaced at 135k. Mine lasted little longer than many others I read. I was lucky that my mechanic only charged me $300. Front brake was only replaced twice and rear brake once at 120k. Changed battery twice every 4 years since new. Oil change with mobile 1 every 5k. Thats it. Very low maintanance car. Enough power to get around and smooth enough but not a luxury just little better than average sedan. Little bigger than compact and little smaller than midsize. Gas mileage around 22-24 mixed driving.

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  Dont buy! - 2009 Nissan Altima
  By Brian Hertling - August 13 - 3:53 pm

  Well here it goes...I dont complain much, but Ive had it with my 2009 Nissan Altima. The steering lock column has failed on me, leaving the vehicle dead in its tracks. After researching the issue, Ive learned that it has been and continues to be a major issue on this make and model. I reside in Minnesota and this happened at night with the temperature of -5 and wind-chills at -30 leaving my wife and I stranded 30 miles from home and 45 miles from the nearest Nissan dealer. The $700 part fails to disengage from the steering column and therefore renders the car useless. After numerous conversations with Nissan consumer affairs I have yet to get an answer. Apparently they extended the warranty for this part, but go figure...It happened to me after the warranty expired. In doing more research I have learned that unless a certified Nissan mechanic diagnosis the issue they(consumer affairs) cant or wont(not sure) do anything for me. Furthermore, the part is the size of a deck cards and riveted so I cant replace the part myself. So, long story short...$700 part, $300 in labor, $150 towing bill for a part that is essentially useless. What has me upset is that Nissan knowingly has not placed a recall on the part even though there have been thousands of issues directly related to this issue....Not to mention its on the National Highway Safety Dept list of hazards. There will never be another Nissan in my garage...ever!